Montreal

Overview

Montréal brims joie de vivre with its French-infused ethos – an impeccable culture and arts scene filled with festivals; a gastronomic explosion of international flavours; historical architecture and an eclectic nightlife are but a few examples of what this island has on offer. The Quebecois have mastered the art of enjoying life to its creative fullest and now you can experience it for yourself.

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5 things you’ll want to do in Montréal:

Mount Royal Heritage Site

This leafy ‘mountain’ is a haven for cyclists, joggers and hikers alike taking in the panoramic views and fresh, crisp air. The winter months offer cross-country skiing and tobogganing for old-fashioned fun.

Highlight: Plan a pitstop at Café des Amis for a scrumptious tête-à-tête with friends.

Golden Square Mile

Culture, history and luxury collide at the foot of the mountain with Golden Square Mile home to McGill University campus, the McCord Museum of Canadian History and Culture as well as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Cafes and local shops complete this hub.

Highlight: Traverse the neighbourhood that houses stately Victorian mansions for a glimpse into Montreal’s past.

Old Montreal

Quaint cobblestone roads lined with cafes, resto-pubs, souvenir shops and local boutiques make up the old port. No visit is complete without the view from the top of the Clock Tower. Oh – and fondue!

Highlight: Pay homage to the gothic revival Notre-Dame Basilica (church).

Quartier des Spectacles (Entertainment district)

The Quartier des Spectacles includes 80+ venues spanning genres and tastes. Take in a movie at the cinema; a live performance at Place des Arts or view the latest exhibit at Musée d’art contemporain to start your cultural journey.

Highlight: Enjoy one of the many outdoor festivals year-round including the Montreal Jazz Festival, Montreal en Lumiere and Nuit Blanche.

The Laurentian Mountains

North of the city, you can take part in some sporting of your own. The Laurentian Mountain Region is a vast and beautiful area, perfect for hiking, canoeing, cycling, golfing, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. Experience winter or summer at its best at Mont-Tremblant, Mont Saint-Sauveur, Morin-Heights and many more.

Highlight: Experience bliss at the Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant after a long day of activities.

City view of Montreal's quartier spectacles

A spectacular day in Montréal

Avid museum explorers will love the Montreal Museums Pass with access to 38 of Montreal's best museums including the celebrated Biodôme. Shop in the many local boutiques and enjoy authentic meals as you explore the varied and very walkable neighbourhoods of Montréal.

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Destination Basics

Montreal summers boast humid average highs of 26 C, while winters are on the opposite end of the spectrum. Snow, wind and ice are commonplace here, with average winter highs around -5 C. Spring and fall are often mild, but atypically warm falls and cold springs are also common. Dress appropriately for the season and you can't go wrong.

Average monthly temperature and average monthly rainfall diagrams for Montreal

Montreal has a rich history, gorgeous architecture and – of course – two languages. When you visit, you'll immediately see the city's unique cultural mix, at once classic and contemporary, bold and subdued.

The cuisine here is a mix of the best of France and the best of Canada. Downtown, you'll find elegant French bistros across the street from poutine stands. You'll also find some of the most delicious desserts and sweets in the country, along with honey-coloured maple syrup.

But Montreal's culture runs even deeper. The history here is visible around every corner. The old buildings still standing (and in use) downtown remain like a moment out of a turn-of-the-century postcard. Old warehouses here are repurposed as luxurious condo buildings. And museums, art shows and festivals regularly keep the streets alive with activity all hours of the day and night.

Just outside of the city, you'll find plenty of beautiful mountains to explore and ski chalets where you can rest your feet. Mont Tremblant offers a picturesque view, reminiscent of the famous French Alps. Not to mention, the incredible powder snow is perfect for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing in the winter. In the summer, visitors can hike, kayak and relax in the sun.

Regardless of what you do during your stay in Montreal, you're sure to leave smiling – perhaps thinking to yourself, "Montreal, je t'aime."